History of Mississippi College
When Mississippi College opened its doors in 1826 as Hampstead Academy, much of the United States was still wilderness. A mere nine years earlier, Mississippi had been admitted into the Union as the twentieth state. Mississippi itself was still an untamed frontier – a challenge to be met by hard work, diligence, and faith. Applying these ideals to the academic setting, Mississippi College began educating men and women to become leaders in both professional and spiritual arenas.
Mississippi College is the oldest institution of higher learning in Mississippi and was the first co-educational institution in the United States to grant a degree to a woman. In 1850, the Mississippi Baptist Convention obtained the University by lease and began operation through a board of trustees.
Now in its 197th year, Mississippi College is the oldest University in the state. The University is governed by a board of trustees elected by the Mississippi Baptist Convention. Support comes through tuition, donations from alumni and friends, foundations and corporate support, and the Mississippi Baptist Convention
